Head for the Hills: Ulster Event Highlights for Cruinniú na nÓg

03/06/2022

Set your creative compass for true north this June 11th and let it guide you to some of the most unique events where young people can let their imaginations run free.

From the north star to the northern lights… everyone knows the north is full of wonders. And this Cruinniú na nÓg, there’s no shortage of ways for children and families to discover whole new worlds of possibility. From kite flying to Celtic folklore to digital design and more, explore your creativity in Ulster. 

A delightful day in Donegal 

The hills are alive with the sound of music… and circus, dance, storytelling – you name it! Get hands-on with Paul and Áine from Fablab, whose children’s STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) workshops are guaranteed to spark your child’s curiosity. 

Participants aged 8-12 will have the chance to design and personalise their own items such as mugs and keyrings in Buncrana, while in Carndonagh the focus will be on learning how to safely build cool electronic items.  

Meanwhile, in Donegal Town, families and children of all ages are invited to head down to The Diamond, transformed for the afternoon into Let’s Play Donegal – with free fun for everyone, from chalk and graffiti art to crafts and a variety of exciting outdoor games. Let the festivities begin! 

Mighty craic in Cavan and Monaghan 

There’s high-flying fun to be had at the Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff with the Go Fly Your Kite workshops. Create your own airborne art, then watch it soar! With all materials provided, all children aged 5-12 have to bring for an afternoon of wonder is their imagination. 

And the fun’s not limited to the rolling hills and big blue skies – young people with additional needs and their families can enjoy a delightful music and film experience online with the screening of Behind the Scenes: Developing Lullaby Leaf, a gentle journey through the making of Ceol Connected’s inclusive sensory film, part of their Sensory SongTales series. 

For the doodlers and drawers of Monaghan, Rossmore Park in Killybrone is the place to be,  where visual artist Grace Hynes will lead two captivating illustration workshops inspired by the unique Irish nature, Celtic folklore and traditions of the area. The perfect way for children to learn new ways of expressing themselves whilst connecting with their environment and the legends inspired by it. 

And who can resist a bit of a boogie? Live music will have the streets of Castleblayney positively hopping as the Garageland Galaxyz live stage at Iontas Theatre serves up an amazing all-day lineup of musicians aged 12-18. There’s even a huge online Galaxyz broadcast for those who can’t make it on the day! 

These awesome Ulster events are just a few of the 500+ that are taking place across Ireland June 11th 2022.  Check out what’s on in Connacht, Leinster and Munster too!

Plan your Cruinniú na nÓg here.

Can’t make an event in-person? There’s lots to explore online!